Introduction
Once you're in space, chances are you'll
want to go somewhere. That's where propulsion comes in. Propulsion
is the process of driving forward by means of a force that causes
motion. Propulsion systems use various methods, depending
on the system's specific role, to get spacecraft from one place to
another. Here we will introduce the physics
that explains how movement is possible in space. We will also describe
the propulsion systems that scientists are currently using or researching.
Before getting
into the details of specific propulsion technologies, it's important
to know some basic physics concepts and terms...
>> Click here for more info |
Although the different propulsion systems in use today vary in design and usage, nearly all of them rely on the energy released in chemical reactions...
>> Click here for more info |
Propulsion systems powered by chemical reactions are quite inefficient in terms of their specific impulse. Scientists are developing new, more efficient systems which would be useful in long-term missions...
>> Click here for more info |
For hundreds of years, people have dreamt of flying to distant stars and planets. Unfortunately, the distances are far too great for us to travel with current technology...
>> Click here for more info |
Think you got what it takes to ace our quiz?
>> Click here for more info |
This section contains links to sources and further study.
>> Click here for more info |
|
Main 